POLICE investigating a possible sexual assault are asking for a woman who helped the victim to come forward.

Officers said the woman they want to speak to helped another woman who was found in a distressed state on St James Street at around 9am this morning (Friday, January 27).

She took her to Burnley police station but left before police could take her full contact details.

DS Louise Darcy of Burnley CID said: “We believe the woman who was found in a distressed state may have been the victim of a sexual assault which is why it is really important that we speak to the woman who very kindly helped her and brought her to the police station.

"I would urge this woman, if she sees this appeal, to get in touch with us as she may be able to help us establish exactly what has happened.

“We are at the very early stages of our enquiries and specially trained officers are assisting with the woman who was found in the town centre.

"We would also urge anyone else who may have seen her in the town centre this morning to contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information that could assist with our enquiries can contact police on 101 quoting log 254 of  January 27.